A wood chipper costs about $150-$50,000 to buy, depending mainly on branch capacity, power source, and whether it is designed for homeowners or commercial crews. Most homeowners spend $500-$2,000 for a gas model that handles branches up to 3 inches; rental fees, delivery, and replacement blades can raise the total.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric chipper purchase | $150 | $350 | $700 | Light yard debris and small branches |
| Gas chipper purchase | $500 | $1,250 | $2,500 | Typical homeowner models, often 2-3-inch capacity |
| Towable chipper purchase | $3,000 | $7,000 | $12,000 | Usually 4-6-inch capacity |
| Commercial chipper purchase | $15,000 | $30,000 | $50,000+ | Higher-capacity equipment and professional use |
| Chipper rental | $75/day | $150/day | $400/day | Rates vary by size, location, and rental term |
New chipper prices by capacity and power type
For most residential jobs, a gas chipper in the $800-$1,800 range balances price and capacity. Small electric models generally cost $150-$500 and suit twigs and branches around 1-1.5 inches thick. They are quieter but are not a match for heavy pruning or large limbs.
Gas models rated for 2-3-inch branches commonly run $500-$2,000. A towable unit with a 4-6-inch feed capacity typically costs $3,000-$10,000; larger or better-equipped versions can exceed that range. Commercial machines rated for 9-12-inch material often cost $15,000-$50,000 or more.
Assumptions: U.S. retail pricing for new equipment, standard features, and ordinary access to local dealers. Larger engines, hydraulic feed systems, and commercial warranties can increase prices.
What the chipper quote includes beyond the machine
The purchase price is usually the largest expense, but delivery, attachments, and upkeep affect the first-year budget. Dealer quotes may include setup or delivery, while online listings may charge separately. The table shows typical U.S. ranges; actual charges depend on the model and seller.
| Cost item | Typical price | Pricing basis | What changes it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machine | $150-$50,000+ | Per unit | Power, capacity, feed system |
| Delivery or freight | $50-$500 | Per delivery | Distance, weight, unloading |
| Setup or assembly | $50-$250 | Per unit | Dealer preparation and assembly needs |
| Replacement blades | $30-$200 | Per set | Blade type and machine size |
| Protective equipment | $50-$250 | Per person | Eye, hearing, hand, and leg protection |
Commercial equipment may need a suitable tow vehicle and trailer, which are not always included in the listed price. For paid setup, labor may be estimated as ; typical small-equipment service rates are about $75-$125 per hour.
Branch diameter and engine size drive the final price
Capacity is the most useful specification to compare because a machine must handle the largest branches in the job. Moving from a 2-inch to a 3-inch rated chipper can add several hundred dollars, while stepping up to a towable 4-6-inch unit commonly adds $2,000-$8,000 over a homeowner model.
Engine power, feed style, and duty rating also matter. Gravity-fed machines cost less than units with hydraulic rollers, which pull branches through more steadily. A machine intended for occasional yard cleanup may cost less but can struggle with continuous workloads. Check both the stated maximum diameter and the manufacturer’s limits for hard or green wood.
Terrain and access affect the practical budget too. A heavy towable model may require a trailer, a vehicle with adequate towing capacity, and room to maneuver. If the job includes tangled brush rather than straight limbs, processing time can rise even when the branches fit the rated opening.
Save money by matching chipper capacity to the job
Choosing the smallest model that safely handles the actual branch diameter avoids paying for capacity that will rarely be used. Measure the thickest limbs first, then compare ratings and intended duty cycle instead of choosing by engine size alone. For a one-time cleanup, renting may cost less than buying and storing a machine.
Compare complete quotes, including delivery, assembly, blade availability, and warranty terms. Used equipment can lower the upfront price, but inspect the feed rollers, knives, engine, safety controls, and service history. Avoid a low-priced unit if replacement parts are difficult to find or the rated capacity does not fit the planned work.
Daily rental rates depend on chipper size and pickup
Renting a homeowner-size chipper often costs $75-$150 per day, while towable units commonly run $150-$400 per day. Weekly rates may reduce the daily equivalent, but deposits, taxes, fuel, damage coverage, and delivery can add charges. Ask whether the quoted rate includes a trailer and what vehicle is required for pickup.
Rental terms may impose a minimum period or charge for late return. Before booking, confirm the maximum branch diameter, operating instructions, and whether the machine accepts the kind of wood on site. A delivery fee of roughly $50-$250 each way is possible, depending on distance and equipment size.
Three chipper budgets for common yard jobs
These examples show how capacity and work duration change the total. They are planning estimates rather than fixed national quotes; rental availability and local labor rates vary.
| Job scenario | Equipment and time | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|
| Small pruning cleanup | Electric chipper purchase, 1-1.5-inch branches | $250-$600 |
| Seasonal homeowner cleanup | 2-3-inch gas chipper rental for 1 day, plus delivery | $125-$400 |
| Large property clearing | 4-6-inch towable rental for 2 days, with delivery | $400-$1,100 |
The large-property estimate assumes the operator handles feeding and setup. Hiring a crew adds labor; a two-person team working 6-8 hours at combined rates of roughly $100-$200 per hour could add $600-$1,600, depending on local pricing and whether hauling is included.
Used versus new chippers and repair trade-offs
A used chipper can cost 20%-50% less than a comparable new unit, but condition determines whether the savings hold up. A lightly used residential model might sell for $300-$1,200, while used towable equipment can range from about $1,500-$7,000. Commercial used machines vary widely, often from $5,000 to $30,000 or more.
Ask for a cold start, inspect for unusual vibration or leaks, and check blade and belt condition. A blade set may cost $30-$200, but engine, roller, or hydraulic repairs can cost hundreds or more. A new machine generally costs more initially but may include a manufacturer warranty and easier access to replacement parts.